It’s easy to overlook foot and ankle health in young children, especially when they’re active, growing, and constantly on the move. But foot problems in kids can lead to long-term issues if not addressed early. From persistent toe walking to heel pain and flat feet, early signs may indicate a need for pediatric podiatry care.
At South Texas Podiatry in San Antonio, our board-certified foot and ankle specialists, Dr. Ed Davis, Dr. Silas Espino, and Dr. Bryan Sagray have extensive experience treating pediatric foot conditions with gentle, effective, and minimally invasive solutions. We’re here to help your child grow confidently and comfortably at every step.
Keep on reading to learn more about the five common signs that may mean it’s time to consult a pediatric podiatrist.
1. Persistent Toe Walking
While toe walking is common in toddlers learning to walk, continuing beyond age two or three may signal underlying concerns. Persistent toe walking can point to:
- Tight calf muscles
- Neurological conditions
- Muscle imbalances or shortened tendons
Early evaluation helps determine whether toe walking correction is needed. Treatments may include physical therapy, serial casting, or orthotics to improve walking patterns and reduce stress on the lower extremities.
2. Complaints of Heel Pain
If your child frequently complains of heel pain, especially after activity, they may be experiencing Sever’s disease. This common condition results from inflammation at the growth plate in the heel and is most prevalent in children between 8 and 14 years old.
Signs to watch for:
- Pain in the back of the heel during or after sports
- Limping or walking on toes
- Swelling in the child’s heel
A pediatric podiatrist can recommend treatments such as rest, heel cups, custom orthotics, or physical therapy to relieve pain and support healing.
3. Flat Feet and Poor Posture
Flat feet are common in young children, but when the arch fails to develop by age six or seven, or if your child complains of foot or leg pain, further evaluation is recommended. Left untreated, flat feet can cause:
- Poor posture and balance issues
- Foot fatigue and muscle strain
- Knee, hip, or back discomfort
Flat feet treatment for children may include orthotic inserts, proper footwear, stretching routines, and in severe cases, further intervention. Choosing the best shoes for kids with flat feet—with proper arch support and cushioning—can also help alleviate symptoms.
4. Frequent Trips and Falls
If your child is unusually clumsy or falls more often than peers, the issue may lie in the feet. Conditions like in-toeing, out-toeing, or muscle imbalance can disrupt gait patterns and coordination.
Frequent falling may indicate:
- Poor foot alignment
- Weak ankles or arches
- Neuromuscular conditions
A pediatric podiatrist can assess your child’s walking pattern, perform gait analysis, and suggest corrective treatments tailored to their needs.
5. Recurring Skin or Nail Issues
Children may experience various foot conditions, from ingrown toenails to painful calluses or warts. While these may seem minor, they can lead to:
- Infection
- Avoidance of walking or sports
- Long-term discomfort
If your child has recurring skin issues, pain when walking, or resists wearing shoes, it’s worth scheduling a visit. Early diagnosis helps prevent complications and ensures proper foot care moving forward.
When to Consult a Pediatric Podiatrist
Many pediatric foot and ankle conditions respond best when addressed early with conservative treatment. Consulting a pediatric podiatrist can help prevent more serious issues later in life by supporting proper development and mobility during the formative years.
You should consider scheduling an evaluation if:
- Your child frequently complains of foot, heel, or leg pain, especially during or after activity.
- You notice changes in their walking pattern, such as limping, toe walking, or in-toeing.
- Balance, coordination, or frequent trips and falls are interfering with daily activities or play.
- Foot problems persist beyond the toddler years or appear to worsen over time.
- There are visible signs of concern, such as swelling, skin irritation, or asymmetrical foot structure.
The American Podiatric Medical Association encourages early evaluation of pediatric foot conditions, as timely care can address biomechanical imbalances and reduce the risk of long-term complications. If you're noticing ongoing discomfort or abnormal movement in your child’s lower extremities, a visit to a pediatric podiatrist can provide answers and relief.
Choosing the Right Footwear for Kids
Wearing the right shoes during childhood is essential for healthy foot development, balance, and posture. Supportive footwear not only helps prevent foot pain and injuries but also plays a key role in correcting or managing existing foot conditions such as flat feet or high arches.
When choosing shoes for your child, keep these essentials in mind:
- Firm heel counter: A sturdy back portion of the shoe helps stabilise the heel and reduce excessive movement that can lead to ankle and arch issues.
- Flexible forefoot: The front of the shoe should bend easily to allow natural foot movement during walking or running.
- Built-in arch support: Especially important for kids with flat feet or high arches, proper arch support can help improve alignment and reduce strain.
- Secure fit with room to grow: Choose shoes that fit snugly without being tight, leaving about a thumb’s width between the longest toe and the front of the shoe.
Avoid shoes with overly soft soles or lacking structure, particularly if your child is active in sports or spends long periods on their feet. Unsupportive footwear can contribute to muscle fatigue, poor posture, and long-term foot and leg problems.
If you’re unsure which shoe is right for your child’s foot type, a pediatric podiatrist can provide personalized guidance and recommend styles that promote comfort, alignment, and healthy development.
Pediatric Services at South Texas Podiatry
At South Texas Podiatry, we provide comprehensive pediatric podiatry care—from early developmental concerns to sports-related injuries. Whether your child is just starting to walk or plays competitive sports, we focus on gentle, effective treatment to support their growing feet.
Led by Dr. Ed Davis, a board-certified pediatric foot specialist, along with Dr. Silas Espino and Dr. Bryan Sagray, our team offers skilled, compassionate care tailored to your child’s needs.
Our pediatric podiatry services include:
- Flat feet treatment for children: Custom orthotics and therapies to support your child’s arches and improve balance.
- Toe walking correction and gait evaluation: Addressing coordination issues and improving posture and movement.
- Growth plate injury and heel pain management: Safe, effective care for conditions like Sever’s disease.
- Treatment of ingrown toenails, warts, and skin conditions: Relieving discomfort and preventing infection.
- Recommendations for the best shoes for kids with flat feet: Expert guidance on footwear that supports proper development.
- Evaluation and care for intoeing, metatarsus adductus, and pediatric deformities: Including techniques like serial casting or use of braces when needed.
We offer expert diagnostics, conservative treatment plans, and clear communication every step of the way. For trusted pediatric foot care in San Antonio, call us at (210) 490-3668 or book online today.
Let’s Keep Your Child’s Feet Strong and Pain-Free
Children may not always say when something feels off, but their feet will often show the signs. If your child is limping, walking on their toes, or dealing with recurring foot pain, the team at South Texas Podiatry, led by Dr. Davis, Dr. Espino, or Dr. Sagray, is here to help.
Call us today at 210-490-3668 or schedule an appointment online to meet with our trusted pediatric foot specialists in San Antonio. Let us help your child move with confidence and comfort.
